Capitol Corner: America Needs Fair Tax

Statement

As the April 15th tax deadline arrives, we are reminded once again of our broken system and the need for a simplified tax code.

Our current tax code is over 73,000 pages long and equally as complex. By constantly segmenting taxpayers with brackets and exemptions, the tax code is becoming more complicated. We all have an equal stake in the success of our nation and for the services our tax dollars provide. However, manipulation and abuse are more prevalent in a complicated tax system, because of its difficulty for even experts to navigate. The recent abuse from the IRS is another shining example of why the Fair Tax is needed. With a simplified tax code, there isn't a need for the large agency.

Fair tax was first introduced into congress in 1999 and sets a flat, national sales retail tax rate at 23%. It only taxes goods and services for personal consumption -- that's it. No income, property, or estate tax. You can keep your whole paycheck and only get taxed on what you choose to spend it on. It's as simple as that. It treats everyone the same and is transparent.

I am a cosponsor of H.R. 25, the Fair Tax Act of 2013, which currently has 75 cosponsors. In fact, each congress since I have been elected, I have supported and cosponsored the Fair Tax Act and will continue to do so as long as I have the privilege to serve in public office.

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